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A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the facility explained that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a difficult decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the park’s director.

“Although it might potentially continue as a lion park under fresh proprietors, such a outcome would require not only the purchase of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.

In a later update, the facility announced that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These decisions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the director said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be put down.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the facility and maintaining care for the lions. Even though the window is short and the circumstances remain uncertain, we are doing all we can to pursue this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “feasible or compassionate alternative” due to their advanced age, the group size involved, and their complex needs.

The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by responses from members of the public, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the park would rethink the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that among the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also been subjected to threatening and abusive messages.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she said. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we appeal for kindness and decency as we handle this tragic circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The government department stated that the determination to euthanise the lions rested with the proprietors, and that it had been notified of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be on location to confirm this is done appropriately,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the establishment continues to meet its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The park attained minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a TV program about a celebrity big cat handler.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was fatally attacked by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The facility often ran into financial trouble and workforce challenges, and changed ownership repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to shut down until the facilities were upgraded. It resumed operations in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.